Musk, who founded Tesla, was interviewed on Nine's 60 Minutes after promising to build the world's largest lithium ion battery in South Australia when the state experienced a blackout.

He was visibly shocked when the interviewer told how expensive electricity is in Australia.

"Australia has so many natural resources, electricity should be cheap,” Musk said.

And he might just be able to deliver on his cheap power promises.

Tesla now manufactures and installs solar roofs that, thanks to their savings on power bills and tax credits, are cheaper than conventional roofs in the US.

Tesla's textured glass tiles. Photo: Tesla

And they don't look like the obtrusive solar panels currently available, either. There are two tiles currently available, a textured black tile and smooth grey tile.

More options are on the way next year, with terracotta Tuscan tiles and slate tiles promised for 2018. They all come with an infinite warranty and are up to four times stronger than conventional tiles.

The only catch? The roofs are available to order in Australia, but are not yet shipping. And with a complex system of rebates in place that differ across states and even across regions, householders may steer clear of solar, despite the government’s upfront discounts on installation.

Although 2016 saw the first time solar power use grew faster globally than any other fuel, Australians have been slow to take up renewable energy options.

But if Musk has anything to do with it, solar may become the solution to our energy woes – and provide affordable, attractive roofs to boot.